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Residents urge caution on sewer plans as debate over growth and costs continues
Summary
Dozens of residents commented during the Los Lagos CSD hearing, raising concerns about growth, builder's remedy, affordability, and the trade-offs between a Solvang connection and local treatment. Speakers urged accurate cost comparisons and protections for Los Olivos character.
Public comment at the district’s hearing featured multiple residents and local stakeholders who emphasized competing priorities: controlling growth and protecting town character versus the need for compliant wastewater infrastructure and avoiding unaffordable connection costs for long‑time residents.
Mary Hayden, a long‑time resident, said, “I want a sewer. I’m done with living with a shithole in my entertainment here,” describing discomfort with current septic systems and support for a Solvang connection to avoid a local plant near homes. Others, including Keith Sarloos and several commenters, warned that installing a pipeline could increase pressure for development along Alamo Pintado and urged the board to include zoning/guardrails as part of planning. Multiple speakers referenced “builder’s remedy” and the county housing‑element status while counsel clarified that builder’s remedy is not currently available for these lots because Santa Barbara County has a certified housing element. Several speakers called for apples‑to‑apples cost comparisons and for the board to proceed in a way that safeguards existing residents from unaffordable hook‑up fees.
